Your pet’s dietary and nutritional needs will change as he ages, and you may need to switch his food throughout his lifetime to ensure he’s eating the right diet. Your pet’s diet should include the precise amount of calories, fat, protein, sugar, carbohydrates, and other essential elements to maintain his weight and health. Check with your veterinarian regularly to make sure your pet’s diet is appropriate and healthy for his age and needs.
Only Change Your Pet’s Diet Under Supervision of a Veterinarian
Your pet’s veterinarian is the only person who is qualified to determine if your pet’s diet is meeting his specific and unique needs. You should not consult with strangers, online resources, or friends and family to determine if you should change your pet’s diet or feed him at a different frequency. If you’re concerned that your pet’s diet isn’t meeting his nutritional needs, visit your veterinarian for a health evaluation. Your veterinarian can run blood tests and do a physical examination to determine if your pet has specialized dietary needs.
Evaluate Your Pet’s Diet as He Ages
You should consult with your veterinarian about how your pet’s diet should change as he ages. At around age 7, most pets should start eating senior pet food; however, this might depend on your pet’s specific health needs. Your veterinarian can determine if your pet would benefit from specialized pet food and/or medicated food that can reduce his risk of developing age-related health problems like kidney failure, heart disease, blindness, dementia, fatigue, and weight gain.
Know the Warning Signs of Dietary Deficiencies
Be sure that you know the warning signs of dietary deficiencies in pets. Watch out for excessive thirst, overeating or refusing food, digestive discomfort, or fatigue.
If you aren’t sure if you’re giving your pet the right food for his age, weight, and health, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian for a health checkup and diet evaluation.
